Month: February 2018

Recently, I stumbled upon Instagram account The Front Door Project and was instantly hooked. I am absolutely amazed with the homes that are featured in the photos. I cannot believe people actually live in these houses! They are so lucky!

I am excited to say that I was able to get in touch with Deb, the founder and creator of The Front Door Project, and ask her a few questions. Check out our interview below:

I see that you started this project in 2014; Tell me more about how you thought of this idea and why you started.

While taking daily walks around her neighborhood she began photographing the front doors of historic homes. After sharing a few of her photos on social media, it became clear that her friends and followers enjoyed the content she was creating. Currently, Deb has almost 50 thousand followers on her Instagram account! Deb Cohen started The Front Door Project in 2014 to “motivate herself to get outside, exercise and pay more attention to her surroundings.” She began photographing homes with a primary focus on the front door. According to her blog, social media provided the means to share photographs and soon led to exploring other local towns in her free time. Deb Cohen lives in the historic town of West Hartford, Connecticut. In 2015 she became the vice chairman for the West Hartford Historical Commission; she works with other board members to preserve the city’s protected historical structures.

Do you have an historic town that you love to visit for The Front Door Project? What are your favorite things about that town?

There are so many wonderful historic places to visit, it’s hard to narrow it down! I think my favorite New England place would be Martha’s Vineyard, which is actually made up of a number of towns, all with great history. Edgartown and Oak Bluffs are my personal favorites. Edgartown has a long whaling history, and its narrow streets are lined with old sea captain’s homes. Oak Bluffs is an explosion of color, with Carpenter Gothic Victorian cottages and homes lining Ocean Park and the streets of the Martha’s Vineyard Campground Meeting Association. In addition to fabulous historic architecture, the island has amazing restaurants, shopping, and the most gorgeous beaches. We have made many summer memories there over the last thirteen years. Fun fact: Jaws was filmed there as well, and it’s fun to pick out scenes that we recognize from the movie.

Outside of New England, my favorite spots to visit for historic architecture (thus far!) are Charleston and New Orleans. Each city has a distinctive look and feel that make them almost instantly recognizable from pictures alone, and each place has so much to offer in terms of cuisine, music, and of course historic sites.

Charleston, SC

Have you been able to see inside of any of these amazing homes? If so, which ones?

I rarely get to see inside of private homes, although that is something I would like to do in the future. There are a number of historic homes open to the public as museums, and I happen to work at The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, CT, which has the most stunning architecture both inside and out! It is absolutely worth a visit if you are in the region, or if you are a lifelong lover of Mark Twain’s books.

If you could have any style home, which would it be and why?

Another tough one! I admire so many architectural styles. I think it’s easier to say what I would not live in. I wouldn’t live in new construction, or any type of contemporary home. Just not my thing! Our country is blessed with so many gorgeous homes from the past, and I would love to see them maintained and preserved for future generations. I love Colonials, Victorians, Craftsmen, Tudors – you name it!

What’s next for you and The Front Door Project?

I am excited about the book project I am working on with Union Park Press, a publisher in the Boston area. It will feature homes from all six New England states, from all four seasons. I have spent the last year traveling the region and shooting photos, and I am doing the final edits now for submission to the publisher. The book should be available by September or October, right before the holidays, so stay tuned! Once I get the book completed, I would like to get back to my blog – I miss writing!

Y’all, her book will be out around my birthday! (*Cough Cough*, Boy Jamie)

Below is a peek at some of my favorite snapshots highlighted on her Instagram account.

Portsmouth, NH

Amherst, NH

Amherst, NHWest Hartford, CT

Old Wethersfield, CT

Suffield, CT

Litchfield, CT

Woods Hole, MA

Concord, MA

I am so grateful to Deb for taking the time to answer my questions. Scrolling through her photos makes me remember all of the reasons why I loved living in the North East. If you haven’t already, go check out The Front Door Project on Instagram!

Dogs really are a man’s/woman’s best friend. If you are struggling to find a creative gift for a loved one this Valentine’s day or any holiday really, take a look at some of the 10 best gifts for dog lovers! Surprise your favorite dog mom or dad with one of these adorable ideas chosen specifically for dog lovers.

My Dog is my Valentine T-Shirt $24

When you have a dog, you always have a valentine, and a pretty great one at that! Your pup is always happy to see you, is overly loyal, and gives tons of kisses. Did you know that spending time with your pup increases levels of the hormone oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone”? I know a few of my friends that would definitely wear this shirt to our Galentine’s day party.

Custom Cookie Cutter $15.95+

I have already attempted baking pupcakes (dog friendly cupcakes) for Hera’s birthday and they were a huge hit! By a huge hit I mean that Hera and her little buddy Lacie devoured them in seconds; typical for my crazy pup. Now it looks like I’ll have to try making my own dog treats with these super cute dog shaped cookie cutters.

Here are some pictures from Hera’s second birthday!

Hera was patiently waiting to try her pupcake.

The exact moment when the food coma hit.

Dog Dad/Mom Mug $6.00+

Do you know what makes me happy? My dog. Do you know what also makes me happy? A fresh cup of coffee in the morning. These dog mom/dad coffee mugs are ideal for snuggling up with a cup of tea and your pup on a cold night or sipping on hot coffee on a relaxing weekend morning…until the pupper makes you take them for a walk.

The Friendship Collar Collection $35.00+

Speaking of taking the dog on a walk, look at this matching collar/bracelet duo! I only highlighted these two options but Friendship Collar.com has many more. Why didn’t I think of this?!

Striped Dog Teepee $85

Sometimes, dogs need a break from their “ruff” life. This teepee is the perfect hideaway for your pet for when he/she wants some alone time. This teepee is extremely versatile and can complement any room, from classic to modern.

Do you ever wonder if your dog has enough mental stimulation in their day? I do! Hera is a black German Shepherd, whose breed is known for their high level of energy and intelligence. This “toy” doubles as a treat dispenser and puzzle for your pup. This will keep your pet physically and mentally busy working for that reward while allowing you some time to yourself!

Custom Tote Bag

This may not be budget friendly but it is completely unique and adorable! This eco-friendly oversized tote, made from 100% cotton, is exactly what you and your pet need to for their favorite treats and toys. It is also a great way to keep their belongings organized for a day at the beach, a sleepover at the pet sitters, or a trip with the family!

I love donuts almost as much as I love Hera! My favorite is Strawberry Frosted…and that’s why I was drawn to these squeaker toys. These toys are a fun, vibrant addition to your pup’s toy collection. If your dog is anything like mine, I’m sure he/she has a pretty hefty collection. Our pup is lovingly spoiled by both Jamies and both dog-grandmas!

This simple non slip feeding station provides ease and accessibility for pups on the go! It also helps protect against the mess that most pups leave behind. The mat contains a food and water bowl surrounded by a FDA approved silicone mat. Easy to transport and easy to store, the mat rolls away in seconds and conveniently pops back in to its carry case. This means wherever you go you have a suitable, clean, handy double bowl set for water and food.

Custom Dog Bone Necklace $28 +

Petite and pretty, this dog bone necklace is sure to show your love for your best friend. Each necklace is custom made. I don’t know about you guys, but I would love something thoughtful and meaningful like this!

I didn’t realize how many of the items I chose were from ETSY until I finished this post. Clearly, Etsy is one of my go-to sites for customized, personalized gifts. Also, when you purchase from Etsy, you help to support a small business or entrepreneur! And that has to make you feel good!

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Welcome!

Welcome to Home & Hera!

My name is Jamie and my little duckling that follows me around everywhere is my two year old German Shepherd, Hera. I love all the things: DIYs, home decor, crafts, HGTV, FRIENDS, donuts & cupcakes, and of course dogs!